Did you know that you were born with only two fears? Those two fears are the fear of loud noises and the fear of falling. All the other fears you hold you were conditioned to fear. So, what fears are keeping you from achieving your career and other life goals?

Are you afraid you won't find a job? Are you afraid you will be stuck in a lackluster career? Are you afraid you won't achieve the level of success you desire? What you do TODAY impacts your short-term and long-term goals.  

It could be that you don't believe you can achieve your goals. Most of us have some limiting beliefs that we've carried around for years, often since childhood. These beliefs were "given" to us by our parents, friends, even teachers. For example, maybe you were told, "You're not smart enough." Even though it may not be true, you may have internalized that belief and carry it with you today. That belief can be holding you back from trying new things or learning new skills because you really do believe you're not smart enough. Take some time to brainstorm what beliefs limit you from achieving your goals.

At a workshop I attended two years ago, participants were asked to write one of our limiting beliefs on a pine board. On the flip side we wrote a new belief to replace our old one. Next we each took turns “breaking” our belief by breaking the board, karate-chop style. It was a very empowering exercise!

Once you've identified and work toward replacing your limiting beliefs and take steps to overcome your fears, set goals using the SMART method.

S - Specific - The more specific, the more likely you'll achieve your goals. Ask yourself who, what, where, when, why?

M - Measurable - Establish concrete criteria such as, how much, how many, etc.?

A - Attainable - Make sure the goals allow you to stretch, but aren't too far out of reach that you give up.

R - Realistic - Do you truly believe the goals can be accomplished? You're more likely to achieve them if you believe you can.

T - Timely - Setting a time frame will create a sense of urgency which is important for goal achievement.

Determined to overcome my fear of public speaking, I set a goal of joining Toastmasters. Since then, I have spoken in front of an audience of up to 250. Achieving this goal has definitely helped me grow my business. Another fear I had was of flying alone. I overcame this fear about six years ago. This has enabled me to fly nation-wide to present workshops. How about you? What fears and limiting beliefs are you willing to let go? What steps are you going to take today to allow you to achieve your goals?

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